Throughout October, Prevention Works Inc. will participate in a variety of community events and educational activities.

Activities include:

– Red Ribbon Week (October 23-31): Encouraging students, families, and community members to show their commitment to living drug-free lives by wearing red, lighting up homes, schools, and municipal buildings in red.

– School-Based Prevention Programs: Providing evidence-based lessons that teach self-regulation, emotional awareness, and healthy coping skills.

– Community outreach and social media campaigns.

“Substance use prevention starts long before a young person ever faces a decision about drugs or alcohol, it’s important to prevent early onset of use of alcohol and other drugs,” said Melanie Witkowski, executive director of Prevention Works Inc. “By building protective factors like strong family communication, positive peer relationships, and supportive school environments, we can reduce the risk of substance misuse and promote long-term well-being.”

Substance misuse continues to be a pressing public health issue across the country. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to addiction due to their developing brains. Brain development and maturation do not complete until the mid-20s. Early substance use can interfere with impairing memory, learning, and overall cognitive functioning, potentially leading to long-term deficits and increased mental health problems. Prevention programs, especially those focused on youth, are proven to reduce risk factors and increase protective behaviors, leading to healthier and safer communities.

The HOPE Chautauqua Coalition recently conducted the Community Level Youth Development Evaluation (CLYDE) survey in the Spring of 2025, reaching 1,500 students across Chautauqua County in eighth, 10th and 12th grades. The anonymous survey results revealed a positive trend, showing a decline in alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use between 2023 and 2025, along with an increased perception of harm associated with all substances. The expansion of Evidenced-Based Prevention Programming in schools, and the collaboration and partnerships across the county are making an impact.

For more information about local prevention efforts or to get involved, visit www.preventionworks.us or follow Prevention Works, Inc. on social media.